Outdoor space is playing a larger role in buyer decisions, but sellers may get the most value from simple, low-maintenance curb appeal rather than costly garden upgrades.

Economists say higher energy costs pushed inflation up, but underlying price pressures were more contained – a key distinction for buyers watching mortgage rates.

Realtors will meet with lawmakers on federal issues tied to everyday customer challenges, including tight inventory, seller tax concerns and buyer access.

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed to 6.52% this week, just below its 2026 peak, while the 15-year fixed rate rose to 5.84%, Freddie Mac reported. Both rates remain below year-ago levels of 6.84% and 5.97%, respectively.

The median home price has stabilized, and mortgage rates have eased enough that monthly payments are more manageable than they’ve been in years. Realtors can use that shift to restart conversations with buyers who went quiet and help them find negotiating leverage on listings that have been sitting.

Broker-owners can use personal contact, open communication and shared community work to make agents feel valued before competitors try to recruit them away.